What is the first action a nurse should take for a patient with aspiration pneumonia who has become increasingly agitated?

When a patient with aspiration pneumonia shows signs of increasing agitation, it is crucial to first assess their physiological status. Using pulse oximetry to check the oxygen saturation is the most appropriate initial action. This is because agitation could be a sign of hypoxia or respiratory distress, which are common complications in patients with aspiration pneumonia. By assessing the oxygen saturation first, the nurse can determine if the agitation is related to inadequate oxygen levels and whether immediate interventions are necessary to stabilize the patient’s condition.

If the oxygen saturation is found to be low, timely interventions such as administering supplemental oxygen, adjusting ventilation settings, or repositioning the patient can be initiated to alleviate the hypoxia and potentially reduce the patient's agitation. This assessment step establishes a critical baseline before other actions are taken, such as providing reassurance, administering sedatives, or updating the healthcare provider. Prioritizing the measurement of oxygen saturation reflects a fundamental nursing principle of first ensuring patient safety and stability.